Growing Luffa, also Loofah, plant sponge
(Cucurbitcaea)
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
| S | T | T | T |
(Best months for planting Luffa in Australia - temperate regions)
S = Plant undercover in seed trays. T = Plant out (transplant) seedlings.
- Grow in seed trays, and plant out in 4-6 weeks. Sow seed at a depth approximately three times the diameter of the seed. Best planted at soil temperatures between 20°C and 30°C.
- Space plants: 45 - 75 cm apart
- Harvest in 11-12 weeks. Use as a back scratcher.
- Compatible with: Peas, Beans, Onions, Sweetcorn
- Avoid growing with: Potatoes
- Luffa on vine
This type of squash while not strictly a vegetable can be eaten when young. They are more commonly grown to use when mature and dried.
The plants are frost tender and need warmth to grow successfully. Keep inside until all risk of frost is gone.
They grow on vines similar to cucumbers.
A large loofa makes a great back scratcher. Luffa can be cut into many shapes for scrubbing pads, padding, and other uses.
Culinary hints - cooking and eating Luffa
The luffa flowers and fruits are soft and edible when young and are sometimes cooked and eaten like squash or okra. Loofah has been an important food source in many Asian cultures. The leaves and vines should not be eaten.
Planting reminders
This planting guide is a general reference intended for home gardeners. We recommend that you take into account your local conditions in making planting decisions. Gardenate is not a farming or commercial advisory service. For specific advice, please contact your local plant suppliers, gardening groups, or agricultural department. The information on this site is presented in good faith, but we take no responsibility as to the accuracy of the information provided.
Your comments and tips
See comments for all plants